Toms River bridge to the barrier islands stuck open

One of the two spans carrying Route 37 traffic from Toms River into the barrier island was blocked when a mechanical portion of the bridge was stuck in the open position, news reports said.Google Maps

TOMS RIVER — A bridge connecting Toms River to the barrier islands in Ocean County has been stuck open, causing mile-long backups and lengthy detours, according to news reports and eyewitnesses.

A mechanical portion of the Thomas Mathis Bridge, which carries eastbound traffic of Route 37 to Seaside Heights and other barrier island communities, became stuck in the upright position about 7:30 p.m., according to a report in the Asbury Park Press.

Citing Toms River Police Chief Michael Mastronardy, the report said an engineer was working to repair the bridge, but it was unknown how long the work might take.

About 8:15 p.m. a driver in the area reported mile-long backups on Route 37.